I. The Age of the Patriarchs can be seen through an overview.

A. There are four “Chief Fathers.”

1. Abraham -- Called by God to be the “Father of many nations”

2. Isaac -- The “Promised Seed” from whom the nation Israel came

3. Jacob -- The father of twelve sons who produced the tribes of Israel

4. Joseph -- The Prime Minister of Egypt and responsible for preserving the budding nation

B. There are several major factors to remember.

1. Abraham was given a covenant that applies to all who are saved by faith in the work of God through Jesus Christ, and becomes the example of “Salvation by Faith” (Romans 4:1-16; Galatians 3:9-24).

2. Isaac is used as the Old Testament example of the willing sacrifice (Hebrews 11:17-19) and is the genetic head of Israel -- the first Jew (Romans 9:7).

3. Jacob is used as an example of God’s sovereign right to choose those whom He wills to serve Him (Romans 9:10-13), fathers twelve (12) sons through four (4) wives, and becomes known as “Israel” (Genesis 32:28; 35:22).

4. Joseph becomes an example of the steadfast, suffering faithful who trust God to accomplish His “good” through them (Genesis 50:20; Acts 7:9-18).

II. The early life of Abram is outlined by his call, testing, and growth.